Team Bios
Meet the experienced professionals driving KimberLite forward. Our founding team combines deep expertise in engineering, finance, diamond trading, and business operations, while our advisors bring extensive Web3 and blockchain experience.
Our Founding Team
Ian Lavender - Founder & CEO
Ian Lavender is an Electrical and Electronic Engineer with over 25 years of senior management experience.
He has led the development and deployment of advanced robotic and software systems, including serving as Technical Support Manager at BMW Group.
At KimberLite, he provides strategic leadership to deliver innovative diamond-backed blockchain solutions.
Paul Hughes - Co-Founder & CCO
Paul Hughes holds a BCom from the University of British Columbia.
He has extensive experience in investment banking and has successfully executed multiple IPOs on global markets.
A diamond trading specialist, Paul has managed institutional sales in New York and negotiated complex commercial contracts with hedge funds and high-net-worth investors.
Gabriel Popa - Co-Founder & CFO
Gabriel Popa holds an MBA in Economic Science and Banking from Aurel Vlaicu University.
With a strong background in banking, insurance, auditing, and mergers & acquisitions, he has advised both local and multinational companies.
Within KimberLite, Gabriel leads financial strategy, producer network expansion, and community growth initiatives.
Elite Advisors in Crypto
Harry Davies - Web3 Business Strategy
Harry Davies is a specialist in Crypto, Blockchain, FinTech, and Web3 with a proven track record of launching and scaling UK-based companies.
He advises on Real-World Asset (RWA) tokenization strategies and has supported multiple notable projects, including KimberLite.
Taylor Ryan - Growth Hacker
Taylor Ryan is a recognized growth hacker and digital marketing expert with over 14 years of experience in Web3 and crypto.
He has led six successful project launches and was awarded “Ecosystem Hero of the Year 2020.” He develops marketing strategies and community engagement for KimberLite.
Richard Trummer - Strategic Advisor
Richard Trummer has been active in cryptocurrency since 2016.
He provides strategic guidance to select high-potential blockchain projects, with a strong focus on long-term industry development and blockchain innovation.
Pekka Kelkka - Crypto Influencer
Pekka Kelkka is a veteran blockchain consultant and influencer with decades of technology experience.
He founded his first internet company in 1994 and has worked with global corporations including IBM, HP, Oracle, and Nokia. He advises on blockchain strategy and project execution.
Timo Trippler - Investor Relations
Timo Trippler brings 12+ years of experience in FinTech, InsurTech, and financial markets.
Since 2015, he has supported numerous blockchain projects through ICO/IDO phases and maintains a network of over 300 institutional investors, family offices, and venture capital firms.
Sangeetha Rathorn - Social Media Manager
Sangeetha Rathorn leads social media strategy and content at KimberLite.
With over five years of experience in digital marketing and a global audience through her publications, she has successfully managed campaigns including the RECORD Token LBP sale on Fjord Foundry.